reset administrator password

A

aesheeley

Registered
I need to reset my administrator password, as it is time to download softward updates on my MacBook (Mac OS X 10.4.8) and I cannot remember the password.

I saw on .mac that I can do this by installing the Mac OS X Install disc, restarting my computer and holding the C key, then go to utilities > reset password.

I am worried about doing this, b/c I don't want to reset my computer, and loose all the files/pics/etc already on my computer. Will restarting the computer from the Install disc erase everything on my computer? Probably a stupid, new-bie question ... but that's what I am!

Thanks -

aesheeley
 
No, simply restarting from the CD/DVD will not touch your current installation of Mac OS X at all.

If you went through all of the motions to reinstall once booted from the CD/DVD, then yes, it would most definitely change things around depending on what you did. But simply booting from the CD will have no effect on your computer.
 
After resetting the password with the reset password utility, terminate the isntallation (do not continue) and restart your computer to boot normally again.

If you continue, than the installation will be performed and you are in 'trouble'.


Good luck, Kees
 
I tried this procedure and when i place the disk in, it still ask me for a password before it can even run. So what do i do when that happens?
 
Have you restarted? Here are the steps, tell us where you are at.

1. Insert OS X Install disk, it doesnt matter what it asks just ignore it, as long as it is in.
2. Restart your computer.
3. When you hear the chime and the white screen comes on, instantly hold down the "C" button.
4. Keep holding...
5. Little Longer..
6. The setup process will start, and choose your language.
7. Look at your top mac bar, and you should see utilities, hit it.
8. Choose reset password and create a new one.
9. Go to the apple on the top left and restart your computer not holding anything and you will be brought back to your computer :)
 
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